The House of Representatives has directed the Federal Ministry of Power and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to urgently restore electricity supply to Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), citing the dire impact on water systems and healthcare services.
The House also urged the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to deploy surveillance teams, medical resources, and launch awareness campaigns in the area, following a rising cholera outbreak.
These resolutions were reached following the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance titled: “Halt the Deadly Cholera Crisis and Restore Power to Save Lives in Badagry West Now”, sponsored by Mr Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, the area’s representative.
Four Years Without Power Fuelling Cholera Outbreak
Leading the debate, Mr Whingan lamented a four-year power outage that has crippled water supply systems, vaccine storage, and public health infrastructure, thereby escalating the cholera crisis.
He expressed deep concern that contaminated water, poor sanitation, and the relocation of the Nigerian Air Force Mother and Child Care Hospital had left residents, especially women and children, dangerously exposed.
“This is not just a health crisis; it is a humanitarian disaster. It is heartbreaking to see lives lost to a preventable disease simply because of government inaction,” Whingan said.
He warned that if left unchecked, the outbreak could spread beyond Lagos State, potentially becoming a national health emergency.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Whingan argued that the federal government’s neglect violates its obligation to ensure the welfare and security of citizens.
Emergency Relief and Oversight Mandated
In response, the House:
- Commended local health workers and volunteers for their dedication under dangerous conditions.
- Called on the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development to coordinate urgent relief, including the provision of clean water and sanitation facilities.
- Directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to distribute sanitary supplies, water purification tablets, and disinfectants to affected communities.
Furthermore, the House mandated its Committees on Healthcare Services, Power, Rural Electrification, and Emergency Preparedness to undertake an on-site assessment of the outbreak, power infrastructure, and hospital relocation. The committees are to report back within three weeks.
CREDIT:VON
